A large wooden sign reads "Fred Thomas Resort Perpetually New," celebrating 100 years, surrounded by trees and a stone-bordered flower bed. - Rice Lake Chamber of Commerce
Published On: July 14th, 2025Categories: Featured Articles

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I stopped at Fred Thomas Resort’s 100 Year Anniversary Open House and spoke with owner Ted Telitz and took some pictures of some of the grounds and Cabin 6. I helped clean cabins there for 2 summers. It is an amazing place and owned by a wonderful family.
Nestled on Big Lake Chetac in Birchwood, Wisconsin, Fred Thomas Resort is celebrating its centennial in 2025—still family-owned and operated through four generations. Founded in 1925 by former Boston Red Sox star Fred Thomas and his wife Connie, the resort began with hand-built cabins powered by their own generator, offering running water—a rarity at the time
The second generation took over in 1958, doubling down on the “Perpetually New” spirit by updating cabins with modern comforts like screened porches, TVs, and air‑conditioning
Fred Thomas Resort.
The third generation expanded further: adding dishwashers, wireless internet, an exercise room, and installing A/C.
In 2021, the fourth generation, Ted Telitz, assumed leadership, guided by eco-friendly initiatives like solar arrays and an EV charger .
Today, the resort offers 22 updated units with full kitchens, A/C, Wi‑Fi, and vaulted porches—while keeping the Northwoods charm alive. It also offers your recreation room, an exercise, room and laundry facilities.
Congratulations on your 100 Year Anniversary!